Systems and methods for using smart contracts to control the trade, supply, manufacture, and distribution of commodities

ABSTRACT

The present principles are directed to systems and methods for providing a trading system cooperatively integrated with manufacturing control and distribution systems, and, more specifically, to provide a trading, clearance, settlement, and depository for securities, commodities, and their derivatives (collectively “securities”) that utilize asset-backed, virtualized data tokens and blockchain technology to facilitate price discovery and automated transactions at all stages of the asset development, manufacturing, and distribution of commodities.

RELATED FILINGS

This application is a Continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.17/892,684, filed Aug. 22, 2022, entitled Systems and Methods for UsingSmart Contracts to Control the Trade, Supply, Manufacture, andDistribution of Commodities, which is a Continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 17/328,396, filed May 24, 2021, now U.S. Pat. No.11,423,450, entitled Systems and Methods for Using Smart Contracts toControl the Trade, Supply, Manufacture, and Distribution of Commodities,which is a Continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/675,697,filed Aug. 11, 2017, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,037,211, entitled Systems andMethods for Using Smart Contracts to Control the Trade, Supply,Manufacture, and Distribution of Commodities, which is aContinuation-In-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/669,870, nowU.S. Pat. No. 11,017,469, filed Aug. 4, 2017, entitled System and Methodfor Manufacturing and Trading Securities and Commodities, which claimspriority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/371,098, filedAug. 4, 2016, entitled System and Method for Interconnectivity ofServers Within a Distributed Network, all of which are incorporatedherein by reference in their entirety. U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/675,697 also claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationNo. 62/373,839, filed Aug. 11, 2016, entitled Benefication of MetalBearing Waste Streams and Conversion into Commercial Products, which isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Due to the complexity and diversity of the topic it is necessary todisclose the enablement in a four-patent-application process, wherebythe series of applications will be together incorporated by reference intheir entirety.

COPYRIGHT NOTICE

Contained herein is material that is subject to copyright protection.The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction byanyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears inthe United States Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records,but otherwise reserves all rights to the copyright whatsoever. Thefollowing notice applies to the software, screenshots and data asdescribed below and in the drawings hereto and All Rights Reserved.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present principles are directed to systems and methods for providinga trading system cooperatively integrated with manufacturing control anddistribution systems, and, more specifically, to provide a trading,clearance, settlement, and depository for securities, commodities, andtheir derivatives (collectively “securities”) that utilize asset-backed,virtualized data tokens and blockchain technology to facilitate pricediscovery and automated transactions at all stages of the assetdevelopment, manufacturing, and distribution of commodities.

BACKGROUND

Disclosed herein are various embodiments of systems and methods foranalyzing feasibility of a metals extraction process. The variousembodiments disclosed are not intended as limitations, and may becombined or implemented individually, in part or in whole. The metalsextraction process may be performed on any type of input source materialcontaining metal including, but not limited to, coal fly ash, bottomash, metal slurry, and any other ash, sand, contaminated soil,contaminated granular material, or combinations thereof. The methodcomprises calculations, display, and export of cost, process,effectiveness, and outputs, among others.

The method further comprises using a pre-programmed calculator whichinterprets user inputs and returns information such as, but not limitedto, process flow sheets, the cost of materials needed, the heatrequired, pH at specified locations in the process, material values, andestimated costs and revenue analyses. The user may input informationsuch as elements present in the input, desired outputs, quantities ofinputs, quantities of outputs, extraction potential, efficiencies,assumptions, and the values of materials. Variables that may affect theprocess may vary depending on the input type and composition. The usermay have the opportunity to choose pre-loaded input types or scenarioswhich may be loaded as-is or may be used as a starting point which theuser may edit. Data may be pulled from various internal and or externaldatabases.

So as to reduce the complexity and length of the Detailed Specification,Applicant(s) herein expressly incorporate(s) by reference all of thefollowing materials identified in each paragraph below. The incorporatedmaterials are not necessarily “prior art” and Applicant(s) expresslyreserve(s) the right to swear behind any of the incorporated materials.

Applicant(s) believe(s) that the material incorporated above is“non-essential” in accordance with 37 CFR 1.57, because it is referredto for purposes of indicating the background or illustrating the stateof the art. However, if the Examiner believes that any of theabove-incorporated material constitutes “essential material” within themeaning of 37 CFR 1.57(c)(1)-(3), applicant(s) will amend thespecification to expressly recite the essential material that isincorporated by reference as allowed by the applicable rules.

Aspects and applications presented here are described below in thedrawings and detailed description. Unless specifically noted, it isintended that the words and phrases in the specification and the claimsbe given their plain, ordinary, and accustomed meaning to those ofordinary skill in the applicable arts. The inventors are fully awarethat they can be their own lexicographers if desired. The inventorsexpressly elect, as their own lexicographers, to use only the plain andordinary meaning of terms in the specification and claims unless theyclearly state otherwise and then further, expressly set forth the“special” definition of that term and explain how it differs from theplain and ordinary meaning. Absent such clear statements of intent toapply a “special” definition, it is the inventors' intent and desirethat the simple, plain and ordinary meaning to the terms be applied tothe interpretation of the specification and claims.

The inventors are also aware of the normal precepts of English grammar.Thus, if a noun, term, or phrase is intended to be furthercharacterized, specified, or narrowed in some way, then such noun, term,or phrase will expressly include additional adjectives, descriptiveterms, or other modifiers in accordance with the normal precepts ofEnglish grammar. Absent the use of such adjectives, descriptive terms,or modifiers, it is the intent that such nouns, terms, or phrases begiven their plain, and ordinary English meaning to those skilled in theapplicable arts as set forth above.

Further, the inventors are fully informed of the standards andapplication of the special provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112, ¶ 6. Thus, theuse of the words “function,” “means” or “step” in the DetailedDescription or Description of the Drawings or claims is not intended tosomehow indicate a desire to invoke the special provisions of 35 U.S.C.§ 112, ¶ 6, to define the systems, methods, processes, and/orapparatuses disclosed herein. To the contrary, if the provisions of 35U.S.C. § 112, ¶ 6 are sought to be invoked to define the embodiments,the claims will specifically and expressly state the exact phrases“means for” or “step for, and will also recite the word “function”(i.e., will state “means for performing the function of . . . ”),without also reciting in such phrases any structure, material or act insupport of the function. Thus, even when the claims recite a “means forperforming the function of . . . ” or “step for performing the functionof . . . ”, if the claims also recite any structure, material or acts insupport of that means or step, or that perform the recited function,then it is the clear intention of the inventors not to invoke theprovisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112, ¶ 6. Moreover, even if the provisions of35 U.S.C. § 112, ¶ 6 are invoked to define the claimed embodiments, itis intended that the embodiments not be limited only to the specificstructure, material or acts that are described in the preferredembodiments, but in addition, include any and all structures, materialsor acts that perform the claimed function as described in alternativeembodiments or forms, or that are well known present or later-developed,equivalent structures, material or acts for performing the claimedfunction.

It should be clear that the embodiments of the systems and methodsdisclosed herein are not inclusive but merely serve as examples ofpossible embodiments. The order of presentation of the embodiments doesnot imply order of preference. It should be clear that while eachembodiment is discussed as a separate whole from the other embodimentsthat various aspects from any one or more embodiments may be combined toform other embodiments not explicitly disclosed herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more complete understanding of the systems, methods, processes, and/orapparatuses disclosed herein may be derived by referring to the detaileddescription when considered in connection with the followingillustrative figures. In the figures, like-reference numbers refer tolike-elements or acts throughout the figures.

FIG. 1 depicts a process overview and how an exchange operates inharmony with plant process control for an exemplary metals extractionplant.

FIG. 2 depicts an embodiment of a tokenization process as it relates toa product.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram depicting an exemplary embodiment of a processbreakdown for an ash conversion plant.

FIG. 4 is an example embodiment of a software window for beginning ananalysis.

FIG. 5 is an example embodiment of a software window for choosing inputcharacterization.

FIG. 6 is an example embodiment of a software window for inputting flyash composition.

FIG. 7 is an example embodiment of a software window for inputting tracemetal compositions in the feedstock.

FIG. 8 is an example embodiment of a software window for choosingpre-treatment options for a fly ash feedstock.

FIG. 9 is an example embodiment of a software window for selectingprocess outputs.

FIG. 10 is an example embodiment of a software window for selecting formof process outputs.

FIG. 11 is an example embodiment of a software window for editing inputvalues.

FIG. 12 is an example embodiment of a software window for editing outputvalues.

FIG. 13 is an example embodiment of a software window for choosing ascaling factor, or tonnage.

FIG. 14 is an example embodiment of a software window for providing aneconomic analysis of process inputs.

FIG. 15 is an example embodiment of a software window for providing aneconomic analysis of process outputs.

FIG. 16 is an example embodiment of a software window for providing anoverall economic analysis for a particular process.

FIG. 17 is an example embodiment of a software window for exportingprocess analysis results.

FIG. 18 depicts an example embodiment of a process for converting flyash into products.

FIG. 19 depicts an example embodiment of a CCM Module according to FIG.3 .

FIG. 20 depicts an example embodiment of an M2 Module according to FIG.3 .

FIG. 21 depicts an example embodiment of a TM Module according to FIG. 3.

FIG. 22 depicts an alternate embodiment of a TM Module according to FIG.3 .

FIG. 23 depicts an example embodiment of a process for capturing arsenicin coal fly ash.

FIG. 24 depicts an example embodiment of a process for capturing zincfrom coal fly ash.

Elements and acts in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and havenot necessarily been rendered according to any particular sequence orembodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description, and for the purposes of explanation,numerous specific details, process durations, and/or specific formulavalues are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of thevarious aspects of exemplary embodiments. However, it will be understoodby those skilled in the relevant arts, that the apparatus, systems, andmethods herein may be practiced without these specific details, processdurations, and/or specific formula values. It is to be understood thatother embodiments may be utilized and structural and functional changesmay be made without departing from the scope of the apparatus, systems,and methods herein. In other instances, known structures and devices areshown or discussed more generally in order to avoid obscuring theexemplary embodiments. In many cases, a description of the operation issufficient to enable one to implement the various forms, particularlywhen the operation is to be implemented in software. It should be notedthat there are many different and alternative configurations, devices,and technologies to which the disclosed embodiments may be applied. Thefull scope of the embodiments is not limited to the examples that aredescribed below.

Further, the following examples include illustrated embodiments,references are made to the accompanying drawings which form a parthereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration various embodimentsin which the systems, methods, processes, and/or apparatuses disclosedherein may be practiced. It is to be understood that other embodimentsmay be utilized and structural and functional changes may be madewithout departing from the scope.

Tokenization Process

FIG. 1 depicts an overview of the systems, processes, and utilityassociated with the beneficiation of coal combustion products, includingfly ash. 2700 represents the coal burning power plant industry,regardless of whether or not they are currently producing energy; theyare or have produced a byproduct known as coal fly ash, or CFA. CFA isgenerally problematic and a significant environmental liability. Whilethe costs associated with placing CFA in a landfill on site can besignificant, there may be other costs associated with its disposal. Assuch, CFA represents a significant cost center to power plant operators.

This application discloses a family of technologies and unique processesto identify, value, and extract various rare earth metals and mineralsfound in CFA, or other industrial wastes, such as oil well flow backwater, ore tailings, acid mine drainage, metal smelting residues, andsuch, that can be manufactured into marketable intermediate products andcommodities.

Field survey and literature review 2611 represents the geophysical,geospatial, and prior qualitative and quantitative information that maybe obtained as part of defining the number of samples, theirconfiguration, type, depth, extent, and target species for a particularfly ash inventory. This information may be captured in a hardcopyreport, database, or other electronic media for use in developing afield-sampling plan.

Field-sampling plan 2612 may represent the nature and extent of asampling effort, and may include the sample number, frequency, spacing,location, depth, sample handling, data logging, sample inspection, aswell as parameters and steps to handle off-normal, out of specification,or unexpected conditions. This information may be captured in a hardcopyreport, database, or other electronic media for use in selectinganalytical methods and analytical sample preparation.

Analytical (Laboratory) process step 2610 represents instrumentationthat may be used to interrogate the selected samples extracted from thefield. A wide variety of analytical methods may be used to collect andorganize data in the field or in a laboratory setting.

Data from the analytical methods and geotechnical investigation of Assay2611 are used to calculate the inventory of target materials of a unitquantity of CFA, or the amount of portfolio of materials containedwithin a specific site. As part of the Assay 2611 process, aSite-Specific Mass-Volume Calculation is made and valued according to amarket price for the sale of the metals. The data from the field surveyand literature review and field-sampling results are synthesized into asite specific value with appropriate uncertainties for use incalculating a variety of project-specific variables. These variables mayinclude, but are not limited to, equipment selection, site preparationand sequencing, processing duration, total site mass or volume. Thesebases may provide different potential uses or perspectives with respectto business logic and process engineering decisions. And are documentedin a ledger entry 2799 along with the valuation 2802. This process stepsas depicted in processes 2799, 2801, 2802, 2803, 2814, and and the like,represent process interactions with a distributed ledger 2800. Data fromthe analytical methods are used to quantify the target constituents ofinterest at specific levels of resolution that may be dictated fromdetection limits or economic interests. Speciation may be elemental,mineralogical, or chemical and may be reported in a variety of logicallyconsistent units (e.g. parts per million, parts per billion, weightpercent, etc.). These data elements may be preserved on for use in aSmart Contract or process control feature 2607.

Inventory-Valuation Estimate 2803 from the analytical methods,site-specific mass-volume calculation, and external economic data fromthe commodities markets may be used to calculate the value of a unitvolume of fly ash or the value of a fly ash deposit (in part or in itsentirety). This information may be used in developing elements of theBlockchain and Smart Contract associated with this fly ash deposit.

Site Scope Definition 2804 from geotechnical investigation that may beused to define the scope of a particular fly ash deposit. Thisinformation may be captured in a hardcopy report, database, or otherelectronic media for use in developing total site mass or volume. Thesedata may be preserved on an Ethereum or other Blockchain technology foruse in a Smart Contract 2607, or process control feature 2640. Producersand owners of stockpiled fly ash engage in a “feedstock agreement” 2620encompassing the producers/owners commitment to subscribe to theexchange 2600 allowing release of feedstock for subsequent processingand sale of products.

A subscription allows the subscriber to move fly ash from their storagefacilities to process 2675 for producing a portfolio of valuable mineralproducts, including but not limited to rare earth metals, fertilizer,and various industrial chemicals. This subscription begins the processof eventual liquidation.

After the subscription agreement 2620 is established between registrantand an owner or producer of fly ash, the fly ash may be stockpiled 2650at either the registrant's facility or left in place at the owner's sitefor eventual extraction. Each individual shipment, or allotment, of flyash can be logged into a distributed ledger 2650. A hash code 2660 mayrepresent a specific shipment/allotment and may track the shipmentthrough the procurement process.

In order to quantify the composition of individual shipments/allotmentsstored within 2650, each shipment/allotment may be randomly sampled andanalyzed. The resulting analysis is an inventory of the minerals andmetals found within the fly ash. The ledger holding the hash coderepresenting an individual shipment/allotment may be amended to includea relative composition. A random sample 2612 of fly ash is sent to a lab2610 for analysis to determine the shipment's/allotment's value in theform of an assay 2611. The assay results may be correlated to the spotrate of the commodities contained therein.

The processes 2675 may be predicated on the use of one or more SmartContracts. Smart Contracts are computer protocols intended tofacilitate, verify, or enforce the negotiation or performance of acontract. Many contractual clauses may be made partially or fullyself-executing, self-enforcing, or both. The aim with Smart Contracts isto provide security and traceability that is superior to traditionalcontract law and to reduce other transaction costs associated withcontracting.

Smart Contracts 2607 have been used primarily in association withcryptocurrencies. The most prominent Smart Contract implementation isthe Ethereum Blockchain platform. Once the composition of the fly ash isdetermined, a Smart Contract system 2607 logs the value of thecommodities based on the spot rate of the commodity composed therein.The Smart Contract architecture can also incorporate specific contractdirection that a subscriber may dictate as part of an order.

Spot rates may be used to price the shipment of commodities associatedwith the fly ash. A value representing the shipment's specific value isamended to the shipment's hash code stored within the distributed ledger2660.

The embodiment of the process of receiving an input of fly ash 2675 andoutputting a tradeable commodity 2644, logged with a hash code; wherethe Hash code is the same as a hash function. A hash function is anyfunction that can be used to map data of arbitrary size to data of fixedsize. The values returned by a hash function are called hash values,hash codes, digests, or simply hashes. One use is a data structurecalled a hash table, widely used in computer software for rapid datalookup. Hash functions accelerate table or database lookup by detectingduplicated records in a large file.

The stockpiled fly ash 2650 is sent to process stage 2675; theapproaches and processes for extracting commodities from fly ash may becontained in the first CIP and co-pending application following thisapplication and covered in much greater detail. An appliance 2665 iscollocated with the process control system of 2675 in order to controland manage the global supply chain of the fly ash through the chemicaland physical processes of extraction, generally 2640 through 2676.

Further, 2665 facilitates the methods used to track the material forcontinue updating into the ledger within each stage to transactionalchange. The appliance adjusts the location value associated with thehash code 2660 representing a shipment of fly ash. The appliance alsohas the ability to label the outputs from the process as unique 2642,2643, 2644, and 2645. The entire supply chain is embodied therein. Thesupply chain is further defined as the process of process control,distribution of product, distribution of regents, and executing thechain of custody of the product.

2640 is an embodiment of the chemical and physical processes for theprocurement of commodities and rare earth metals from fly ash. Theprocesses contained within 2641, 2642, 2643, 2644, 2645, 2660 are thevarious steps within the process. Shipments of the fly ash are inputinto the system. Tracked by a hash code associated with 2660, theshipments move through the processes 2641, 2642, 2643 and are turnedinto commodities and rare earth metals. At the end of the processes, thecommodities and rare earth metals produced are given unique hash codes2644, 2645. The hash codes are used as representation of the items onthe exchange platform 2600. The hash codes are amended to the ledgercreating the tradeable commodity.

A process is described for converting a shipment of fly ash tocommodities and rare earth metals. Other processes described within theprocess 2641 may be controlled via a Smart Contract 2660. The SmartContract object 2660 is driven by data received from the Smart Contractappliance 2665, and the various data inputs from the exchange platform2600 and provides various process control inputs associated with, butnot limited to, the optimal pumping rate, stir rate, mixture ratios,amounts, and volume to maximize efficiency of processing system 2675.

Receiving the output from process 2641, an option is to store theresulting products. Process intermediates may also be stockpiled forfuture use in process 2643.

Contaminants may be removed to create purified products which may bedistributed to steps 2642 and 2643 improving the efficiency ofextracting rare earth metals. The whole process is logged continuouslyby an appliance or appliances FIG. 1, 2665 monitoring the supply chain.

In the event that the process intermediate is received by 2641 is notdecided for storage 2642, the product may enter the procurement process.Through a proprietary chemical leaching solution, the product enteredinto this stage is transformed into rare earth metals. There are twooutputs from this process: rare earth metals 2644 and an excess product2645 that has the opportunity for future refinement but no immediatevalue. The excess product in 2646 may be moved to a similar storagefacility as the product given to 2642.

Rare earth metals extracted from the chemical leaching solution 2643 areeach assigned a new unique hash code. These hash codes are used toliquidize these commodities on a proprietary exchange 2600. Thecommodities created 2676, 2677, 2678 are shipped to their finaldestinations through the use of various supply chain fulfillment methods2691, 2682. The excess product created is moved to a storage area 2642with the potential for later refinement.

The Smart Contract application 2607 receives data from the exchangeplatform 2600 and acts as a guide for the exact specifications ofproduction outlined in the embodiment included with the process control2640, 2665. The Smart Contract application also creates tradeablederivatives that are based on the rare earth metal commodity outputs2644 from the refinement process 2643.

In an embodiment of exchange platform 2600, it may operate and fluidlymaintain a distributed network through a plurality of micro networksamongst its users. The micro networks may operate transactions within asmall number of users. This increases the speed and efficiency of theexchange network. At predetermined time intervals, each user may sendtheir most up to date chain of transactions representing the net changein assets over the time-period to a centralized exchange for compilationand the other networks of users. The centralized exchange may documentand store the complete ledger in order to mitigate the threat offraudulent transactions. The exact specifications and definition of thetransactions are defined therein. The system may be peer-to-peer andtransactions can take place between users directly, without anintermediary. These transactions may be verified by network nodes andrecorded in a distributed ledger that houses hash codes representing thecommodity. When a transaction is made between two parties, a block inthe ledger is updated when two or more entities not involved in thetransaction authenticate a trade. Once a trade is authenticated, anobject (currency, stock, etc.) changes ownership. This negates the needfor a physical transferable object.

Market participants may subscribe to the exchange platform 2600 in orderto trade commodities.

In a non-limiting example of an asset-backed tokenization process, FIG.2 depicts block 2800 as a distributed database record storing what arecalled distributed ledgers 2801. Distributed ledgers are a collectivedatabase that is consensually shared and synchronized between a networkof nodes across multiple locations, and may operate in either privatemode, public mode, or a combination thereof. In private mode, thedistributed ledgers 2800 is owned and maintained for the exclusivebenefit of the owners or members of a specific exchange. This modeensures private data is secure from public access. In public mode, thedistributed ledgers are available for registration and recording oftransactions and other data by the public at large. In hybrid mode, oneor more distributed ledgers operating in private mode may bridge, orpublish subsets of data entries to either one, or both distributedledgers operating exclusively in private or public mode. Private,public, or hybrid distributed ledgers 2800 may be created upon theinitial creation and registration of an asset-backed token. Asset-backedtokens may represent any measurable, quantifiable, and verifiablephysical, or economic characteristics. Asset-backed tokencharacteristics may include but are not limited to the volume, mass,value contribution ratio, current market value, elemental makeup,mineral species, grading data, location of origin, or processingfacility data of the specified underlying assets. In anothernon-limiting example, feedstock agreements may be originated, or createdat T₁ and documented, or registered in a datagram 2799. Datagrams 2799may then be transmitted to one or more exchanges 2600 and recorded intoone or more distributed ledgers 2800. Once created, a ledger may publisha posting to one or more distributed ledgers 2800 operating in public,private or hybrid mode. This posting, along with every subsequentdatagram entry and posting establishes what is known in the art as aBlockchain for each registered asset-backed token. As assets have value,such value may be unknown, or undetermined at this point. At T₂, acommodity inventory may be evaluated using data and algorithms in steps2610, 2611, 2613, 2802, and 2804. In a non-limiting example of a mineralbearing asset, the results of standard sampling, and assay process maybe documented at 2803. The results of each data acquisition,calculation, and recording step may be transmitted to an exchange serverrelating to a specific ledger entry. The results may then be publishedto the distributed ledger 2800 and added as a new entry to theBlockchain, each entry may represent a value change in the process ofthe underlying commodity, such as in this example of a mineral bearingsubstance.

At some point in the life-cycle of an asset, a commodity may bedesignated to fulfil a supply contract between the owner of an asset, toone or more buyers, or traders of the asset, or of one or moreunderlying commodities. The contractual terms to fulfill such anagreement may be automatically created and transacted using a SmartContract. Any one or more variables or events may be defined to causethe creation, and the automatic clearing or execution of SmartContracts. Smart Contracts may be created and cleared using milestonesthat may be achieved throughout the lifecycle of an asset, collection ofassets, a process, or series of processes. Smart Contracts may bemanaged by the owner of an exchange, as part of the exchange services;where fees for such transactions are paid directly to the exchange.Transactions created in the above process are entered into thedistributed ledger 2800 and may be logged in a public mode, privatemode, or to both, the determination of which may depend on the type ofrecord, contract, asset, an aspect of the transaction, subscriptionservice level, or membership level.

As discussed earlier, a Smart Contract 2607 may execute certain tasksautomatically. Non-limiting examples where a Smart Contract mayautomatically execute may be once a buy signal is released based on abuyer, a notification is sent and received by a Smart Contract. TheSmart Contract then initiates process 2675 whereby raw materials areprocessed per one or more ledgers records, i.e., gold, platinum, orbananas into banana bread. In this example, the overlying processcontrol may be functionally indistinguishable from the execution logicof the Smart Contract.

In an embodiment, the Smart Contract 2607 may send an authorizationsignal to a plant control processor 2640 running in an appliance 2665.Depending on the received authorization signal, logic software 2660 mayaccept the instruction as a process control signal, and may initiate,delay, stop or alter one or more controlled plant processes. Acceptanceof a process control signal and subsequent execution to process materialrepresents a one-way event; as once raw material is fed into theprocess, the raw feed is irreversibly altered into an intermediate stateor final product. An example of this underlying process is analogous toprocessing cattle into beef products. Once a cow enters a processingplant, the process is committed and it is irreversible.

Steps 2641, 2642, 2643 each generate a data record of the process, theserecords as with the others are fed back out of the plant to the plantcontrol system, and logged into a distributed ledger 2800 as a newrecord. Each phase of a process from start to finish may, or may notaffect a change of value of the asset-backed tokens, or the underlyingconstituents. Only the defined terms and conditions of a Smart Contractmay affect their value.

Eventually, an intermediate product or refined commodity is packaged,labeled and shipped. As an example, Product A could be sand in the formof silicon dioxide, Product B 2677 could be iron, and Product C 2678could be gold. A Smart Contract pertaining to each intermediate orrefined product may be individually, or collectively reported back tothe ledger as a process event. In the case where a finished product isformed, an updated value from the Smart Contract may reflect in therecord e.g. 2811, 2812, 2813.

In a final step 2900 fulfillment and distribution, the Smart Contract2607 may include instructions to release funds upon shipment of theproducts F.O.B. the shipping dock. In this example, the asset owner, andall the way down to the plant owner may be paid for supplying andfulfilling the terms of the Smart Contract. The token is terminated andfunds are disbursed per the Smart Contract. The Smart Contract mayinclude other agreements for third-party services such as truckingagreements. For example, compensation for 2681 and 2682 transportationmay be paid, as well. At the conclusion of this step, the buyer, or enduser may take possession of, or consume the product or service, and mayprovide a consummation report back to the exchange through a partnerdatabase. This action may be the terminating step for one or moreasset-backed tokens, or a pertinent Smart Contract. As consumers demandand buy more products, this process cycle is repeated, new SmartContracts are created and executed, and additional raw material isprocessed into products.

In some embodiments of the Tokenization process, e.g. liquidity process;each process step e.g. FIG. 1, 2799, 2802, 2803 , etc. may be used toestablish the ledger record stored in FIG. 1, 2800 as 2801. Thedistributed ledger documents the process as described above, but in analternate embodiment the process of Tokenization may include tokens thathave different values and costs associated with them. This embodiment issupportive where multiple scenarios can occur.

In an embodiment, the Feed stock is 1,000,000 tonnes of Coal Fly Ash,and is documented in an agreement 2620, the agreement is in the form ofa mineral rights agreement. A sampling plan and assay are initiated 2611and 2612 that yield a total amount of material per tonne of materialprocessed. Using the process totals disclosed below, and referring toFIGS. 4-15 ; FIG. 16 depicts a revenue value of 434 units per tonne ofcoal fly ash produced. The cost is shown as 77 units leaving a grossmargin of 357 units. Processing 1000 tonnes of material per day yields agross margin of 357,000 units. The mineral rights agreement allowsprocessing of 1,000,000 tonnes, at 357,000 units per tonne for a totalvalue of 357,000,000 units.

In some embodiments, one may choose to monetize their rights across adistributed exchange based on Block chain validation and verificationkept in a distributed ledger. The distributed ledger uses the creationof a Token for every 1,000 units. The mineral rights agreement asassessed by a qualified 3^(rd) party as having a net present value of10% post processing values gross market value or 357,000 units. Therights are placed on the exchange, the tokens are created representingthe asset and the net present value of the asset. One side note here,obviously it is well understood in the art that futures markets mayinfluence current values of assets, e.g. gold futures, silver futuresand platinum futures. So obviously the asset values can be based on theasset, they could be based on a currency, or backed by digitalcurrencies. For some embodiments, the term asset backed tokens is used,where the token has an objective value, similar to what the US dollarswhen backed by gold and later silver.

Another aspect, it that the values of the token can change based on themarket values, or the token values are stable, and the quantities oftokens change. As an example, the minerals rights are based on a steadynumber based on the demands of the world economy, much like currency.However, the asset grows in value, so more tokens are created. As anexample of that, FIG. 1 shows the steps of 2799, 2804, 2802, and thegeneration of a token 2820 through the exchange platform 2600. Thisprocess step is called for by a Smart Contract disclosed earlier andexecuted. The value doubles, therefore the number of tokens double,think of the token as a dollar. However, the token may be initiallybased on an assayed value, e.g., net present value, which places itunder the market price, but the process step causes the value to double.

Referring to the example where the token is much like a dollar, at theend of a process 2675, the products, A-C 2676-2778 and FOB, at thispoint the tokens are dispersed, everybody is liquidated in the sale ofthe asset, the tokens are liquidated, and destroyed. The ledger andblock chain are closed.

Below is a further discussion of a process tool, the process tooldisclosed is linked to the assay and to the plant control processes FIG.1 2640, processing decisions may be driven by futures, location ofsource material, market demand. The combination of the process tool, andtoken values play into the processing strategy, either automatically anddynamically, or manually. As an example, process step C can generate oneof two product streams, C1 2644 or C2 2645. C1 has immediate need in themarket, the price is up, and futures are strong. However, C2 is heldeither in the process step, or processed to product and stored waitingfor the better time to liquidate through a sale of the asset. It is alsowell understood and practiced the art of longing and shorting themarkets, it will not be further disclosed as it is well known andunderstood in the art.

The combination of plant process control, dynamic product evaluation ina processing assessment tool, and a digital exchange allows theformation of new economies based on currencies backed by assets. Thecombination of these three elements would not be well understood in theart.

Process Tool

Users may create a new analysis from scratch or based on a templateusing new material, quantity, and cost information, or to open anexisting analysis or pre-loaded scenario. The user may preset units inpreferences or may individually choose units for each analysis. The usermay have the ability to edit the units used in an analysis at any time.The user may choose to display more than one-unit type for each value,for instance showing economic data in US dollars, yuan, and in euros andor showing masses in both kilograms and tons.

Depending on user preferences, the background calculations and analysismay be performed and updated every time a user input is provided/edited,when units are edited, at pre-defined time intervals, uponsaving/exporting the analysis, or upon manual selection by the user.

When creating a new analysis, users may be offered various potentialinputs as a starting point. If the user selects one of these, such asfly ash in an embodiment, the system may load a pre-filled set ofvariables that may or may not be editable based on user preferences.User preferences may be updated at any time throughout the analysis.Alternatively, the user may be presented with a list of the standardknown components of the selected input which they may fill in and edit.If the user does not choose a preset they may be presented with anoption to manually input the composition or load it from an externalfile such as an excel document. Users may provide the composition of theinput material in terms of either mass or percent of total mass, or asset in user preferences. At any time, the user may navigate back to apreviously presented screen to edit inputs. In some embodiments, theinput variables may be requested in sequential windows which the usermay progress through. In some embodiments, the user may manually choosewhich inputs are edited and when by selecting from a pane or list whichmay be included as part of the user interface. The user may scale theinput and apply a unit such as 1000 tons per day or just 1 ton.

A selection of metals may be provided to the user from which the usermay choose which outputs they desire. The user may add unlisted outputs.Depending on the input characterization different potential outputs maybe listed. The input characterization may automatically be analyzed andpotential outputs and variations thereof may be presented to the userfor selection based on information stored within the program. Additionalinformation may be loaded into the program at any time and or theprogram may automatically learn from the user or other sources. For someprocess embodiments, there may be alternative outputs that may beselected. In some embodiments, more than one alternative output may beselected with the opportunity to add desired percentages of each output.The user may have an opportunity to select the desired outputcompositions. A prompt may be presented to the user should the userattempt to add a desired output that is not feasible given the providedinputs. The system may employ built-in checks to alert the user should aspecific value or data set fail to fall within certain parameters, forinstance if the total composition of the input by weight percent failsto equal 100%. The parameters may be edited or provided with ranges forerror such as 100%+/−2% may be allowable for the input weight percentparameter.

The user may select equipment for the process. The user may generallyselect type of equipment such as grinder, tank, or filter or may selectspecific equipment from specific manufacturers. The program may haveaccess to database(s) of equipment which may update over time, dependingon user preferences. The user may add equipment that is not currently inthe system database(s) and may choose to add it to only a specificanalysis and or to the database(s). The user may edit databasesmanually. Alternatively, depending on user preferences, databases may belocked for editing. Databases may be selected to update in real-time,for instance materials values may be selected to update in real-timebased on commodity market values.

The user has the ability to scale the depth of the analysis. Forinstance, the user may simplify the analysis by choosing not to includespecific equipment that may be utilized or the user may choose to setone or more assumptions that reduce the number of calculations requiredin the analysis, such as assuming global process efficiency of 100%.Alternatively, the user may increase the depth of the analysis byproviding more information such as individual process and/or equipmentefficiencies.

The user may provide notes around any input, output, process, equipment,etc. that may be selected to be shown on the final output or may beviewable only to the user.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram depicting an exemplary embodiment of a processbreakdown for an ash conversion plant. In the depicted embodiment, theconversion process is broken down into three processes followed by aconditioning process. The first process module is a Compound CommoditiesModule (CCM) for converting gypsum, if present, into one or more ofammonium sulfate, calcium carbonate, barium sulfate, calcium chloride,and activated carbon. The second process module is a Metals Module (M2)for extracting various metals such as alumina and iron oxide. In someembodiments, silicon dioxide may be extracted in the M2 modules. Thethird process module is the Tech-Metals Module (TM) for the extractionof various metals such as rare earth metals and mischmetals. TheConditioning Module is for the final extraction of unmarketableconcentrates and for conditioning the remaining leachate and/or waterfor reuse.

FIG. 4 is an example embodiment of a software window for beginning ananalysis. The plant processing scenario tool provides a method toconduct “what-if” types of economic calculations, regression modeling ofplant performance and product yields, or other types of optimizations orforecasting. The launch into this application provides a dialog thatallows the user to select previously developed scenarios or create newscenarios with various inputs and assumptions. This dialog alsoenumerates the default inputs and assumptions for the user in theabsence any other direction.

FIG. 5 is an example embodiment of a software window for choosing inputcharacterization. This dialog in the process tool application providesfor specifying a substrate for process simulation and preserving usernotes as a simulation evolves. CFA is the default selection, however,other substrates are prospects for processing through an Elixsys-basedseparation plant. The proposed separation methods are highly modular andcapable of adapting to feeds with wide ranging properties.

FIG. 6 is an example embodiment of a software window for inputting flyash composition. This dialog in the process tool application provides amethod for inputting a specific substrate (CFA or other material)composition on a unit basis. The radio buttons extend the compositiondefinition protocol to include materials that may be minor contributorsin overall quantity, but represent high-value opportunities. Anauto-loading script that can extract data from a machine-readable filemay represent a preferred embodiment of this interface.

FIG. 7 is an example embodiment of a software window for inputting tracemetal compositions in the feedstock. This dialog represents anembodiment of the radio button action from Page 10; it allows specificuser input for species that may not have been captured in amachine-readable file as part of a routine characterization assay.

FIG. 8 is an example embodiment of a software window for choosingpre-treatment options for a fly ash feedstock. This dialog interfacerepresents a simplified decision selection for the fly ash pretreatmentcircuit in a simulation. There are distinct options identified forextraction in the pretreatment circuit, with ammonium sulfate-calciteproduction, barium sulfate-calcium chloride production, and gypsumrecovery as initial separations. Other conversions and recoveries may bediscovered and incorporated as experience dictates.

FIG. 9 is an example embodiment of a software window for selectingprocess outputs. FIG. 10 is an example embodiment of a software windowfor selecting form of process outputs. These dialog interfaces representa decision selection for the industrial materials recovery circuitpost-pretreatment in a simulation. There are distinct options identifiedfor extraction in the industrial materials circuit, with aluminum (asaluminum oxide) production, iron (as iron oxide), and magnesium (asmagnesium oxide) recovery as initial separations. Other conversions andrecoveries, such as mischmetal and silicon dioxide may be incorporatedas economics and experience dictates.

FIG. 11 is an example embodiment of a software window for editing inputvalues. This dialog interface provides a means for defining consumableinput processing costs. These costs may be input by the user orextracted from a live data feed from spot/futures market data for use inthe simulation. The bases for the input ranges may bestatistically-based and/or consider quotes from a variety of suppliers.

FIG. 12 is an example embodiment of a software window for editing outputvalues. This dialog interface provides a means for defining outputproduct prices. These prices may be input by the user (as a what-ifcondition) or extracted from a live data feed from spot/futures marketdata for use in the simulation. The bases for the input ranges may bestatistically-based and/or consider quotes from a variety of suppliers.

FIG. 13 is an example embodiment of a software window for choosing ascaling factor. This dialog allows a user to quickly and easily scalethe mass flow and economic results by a specific scaling factor.

FIG. 14 is an example embodiment of a software window for providing aneconomic analysis of process inputs. This dialog provides the output ofan economic simulation in a dashboard format, where a user can reviewthe input production quantities and their associated costs with respectto plant operations on a unit basis (ton of CFA).

FIG. 15 is an example embodiment of a software window for providing aneconomic analysis of process outputs. This dialog provides the output ofan economic simulation in a dashboard format, where a user can reviewthe output production quantities and their associated prices withrespect to plant operations on a unit basis (ton of CFA). Minor,high-value constituents may be priced with respect to a more rationalbasis after extraction from the CFA, rather than per ton of CFAprocessed.

FIG. 16 is an example embodiment of a software window for providing anoverall economic analysis for a specific process. This dialog interfaceprovides a means for defining the economic balance of plant calculationon a unit basis (typically, ton of CFA processed). The inputs, outputs,costs, and prices may be modified by the user in the simulation (as awhat-if condition).

FIG. 17 is an example embodiment of a software window for exportingprocess analysis results. This dialog interface provides GUI forcapturing the input configuration, intermediate calculations, andoutputs for a simulation as a machine-readable file, such as a CSV or MSExcel workbook.

FIGS. 18 through 24 depict example embodiments of processes andsub-processes for converting fly ash into products.

To perform calculations the system may reference one or more internal orexternal databases. The system performs pre-defined calculations basedupon user selections and inputs such as performing mass balance, pHanalysis, temperature and heating/cooling requirements, overall processefficiency, and economic analysis. In some embodiments, the system mayprovide suggestions to the user to improve various aspects of theanalysis based on their inputs such as suggesting an alternative outputwith higher market value or a piece of equipment that requires smallermaintenance and energy budget.

The user may perform what-if analyses that may be displayed together forcomparison or separately, per user preferences. The user may select anynumber of specific variables and set ranges to calculate and display.The user may select how they results of the analyses are displayed. Ifthe user chooses to output separate what-if analyses with a single querythey may be presented with an option to either save/export the entireset of analyses as one document (in their desired format) or in separatedocuments (which may be saved individually in different formats or maybe saved in the same format). If the user chooses to save/export theresults of a what-if analysis separately they may have the option ofmanually naming each or choosing a specific pre-defined naming format(which may be set in preferences) which may be used to automaticallyapply names to each file. The user may view and accept the filenamesprior to save/export or it may auto-save using the prescribed formatwithout requesting user review, per user defined preferences.

When saving the analysis, the system may perform a check that theanalysis has been run with the most updated variables before saving. Theuser may be presented with a chance to confirm or deny an update priorto saving. Prior to exporting an analysis, the user may be prompted witha chance to confirm their input values and to review their selectionsfor any mistakes. These checks may be toggled on or off per userpreferences.

Output data graphics may be generated based upon user inputs. They maychange dynamically as inputs vary. The user may manually edit datagraphics and or individually or globally lock data graphics for editing.The user may change how data is depicted. Data graphics may be changedwhile retaining the value. For instance, temperature may display as avalue initially but can be changed to a more visual color display ortemperature may display as both a value and a color.

The method and format of data delivery may be changed by the user tomeet their presentation needs; however, all requested information may beavailable to the user regardless of final visual style. The user maypick and choose which data to present. For instance, the user may haveselected a full in-depth analysis to be performed but may want to createa simplified elevator-pitch style report highlighting only a simpleoverview of the final results.

The analysis may be saved in an interactive pdf, static pdf, xml, doc,jpeg or png, or other visual medium for delivery, distribution, ordisplay. Exported analyses may be editable in other programs. The usermay select the resolution of the output. The user may preset outputresolution in preferences including varying resolution that is dependenton the type of output for instance text may be preset to a lowerresolution than images. The output resolution may also be preset foroutput type for instance image files may be selected to save at a highdefault resolution and pdfs may be selected to save at a lowerresolution.

Users may choose from report templates to auto-load the analysis intopredefined formats. The templates may be set to be editable or locked bythe user depending on preferences. Templates may exist for specificexport formats, report formats, or for specific page types within theanalysis. Specific page types may comprise process descriptions, flowcharts, tables, assumptions, table of contents, title page, datacomparison pages, and other various page types. Users may create theirown templates. The user may edit the analysis as desired prior toexporting. For instance, the user may reorganize the order of the pages,rearrange elements on each page, move information from one page toanother, delete undesired pages or information, add pages, add text orother information or graphics, recolor components, add/removebackgrounds, update labels, edit fonts, and make any other desiredchanges to the report format. The user may save the report format as atemplate for reuse. The user may set one or more default reporttemplates in preferences which may be applied per export format, inputcharacterization, or other settings. The user may select all pages oronly certain pages for export.

Alternatively, the user may manually create a report from scratch. Theuser may be presented with one or more of a graph, table, chart, matrix,or other data presentation medium depicting the process flow, economicanalyses, mass balances, pH scales, process temperatures, or otherprovided/desired data. Various visual displays such as charts, graphs,and tables may be selected from and placed onto one or more pages asdesired.

Users may have the ability to customize the output with qualitiescomprising font, color scheme, theme, company name and or logo, andconfidentiality markings. They may also be able to select what type ofdata output style they want, such as pie charts, raw outputs, or otherdata delivery methods.

The user interface may be customizable such that the user may edit whichtoolbars, panes, windows, or other user functionalities are present onthe screen during various operations. The user may also edit thelocation of the various toolbars, panes, windows, or other userfunctionalities either universally across documents and or analyses orindividually per document and or process. Additionally, the user may setthemes and color preferences for the windows as well as for the outputsthat may be displayed and or exported.

All preferences including aesthetics, navigation, units, andprocess-specific preferences may be set individually to either applyglobally or per analysis. Preferences may be edited at any time.Preferences may be locked by a user or administrator. Preferences may bepassword protected.

Some embodiments may incorporate a control panel from which the user maycontrol how the various operations are performed. The user may editpreferences to choose how the functions are arranged and shown, forinstance the user may choose to have all functionality laid out inseparate tabs on the same window or in separate windows. The user maychange how the input windows are displayed and in what order. The usercan specify which variables may be edited and which are pulled from adatabase. For instance, the user may prefer that all material values bepulled from a database and remain locked for editing.

A password and/or encryption may be applied to any specific analysis orglobally. Users may also password-protect their analysis exports. Anyone or more function in the system may be password protected.

In some embodiments, the system may learn from user interaction and orfrom external sources. Users may enter or upload data to the system toteach it about new processes, alternative processing options,alternative equipment, updated chemical process data, and the like. Thesystem may learn actively or passively according to user preferences.Alternatively, the user may choose to disallow learning.

The system includes one or more internal and or external databases whichit accesses to provide options to the users and to perform analyses.Depending on user preferences the databases may update regularly forinstance at predefined intervals, upon user specified action (such asfile open or close), or when manually selected. Users may manuallyupload information to the databases individually or in bulk. Users maymanually edit the databases and or lock the databases.

The hydrometallurgical process for removing metals from coal fly ash(CFA) extends the range of beneficial uses of CFA in other thanencapsulated forms, such as in high strength cements. This process issuitable for both Class F and Class C fly ashes that are commonlyproduced as a byproduct of coal combustion in the United States. Theremoval of the heavy metals permits the use of CFA in many beneficialapplications including, but not limited to, agricultural uses such asfertilizers, soil supplements or amendments, and filler materials forthe plastic, paper, and paint industries; as well as the production ofzeolites for a multitude of other possible uses.

The various operations of methods described above may be performed byany suitable means capable of performing the operations, such as varioushardware and/or software component(s), circuits, and/or module(s).Generally, any operations illustrated in the Figures may be performed bycorresponding functional means capable of performing the operations.

The various illustrative logical blocks, modules and circuits describedin connection with the present disclosure may be implemented orperformed with a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor(DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a fieldprogrammable gate array signal (FPGA) or other programmable logic device(PLD), discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware componentsor any combination thereof designed to perform the functions describedherein. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but in thealternative, the processor may be any commercially available processor,controller, microcontroller or state machine. A processor may also beimplemented as a combination of two computing components, e.g., acombination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality ofmicroprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSPcore, or any other such configuration.

In one or more aspects, the functions described may be implemented inhardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. If implementedin software, the functions may be stored on or transmitted over as oneor more instructions or code on a computer-readable medium.Computer-readable media includes both computer storage media andcommunication media including any medium that facilitates transfer of acomputer program from one place to another. A storage media may be anyavailable media that can be accessed by a computer. By way of example,and not limitation, such computer-readable media can comprise RAM, ROM,EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage orother magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used tocarry or store desired program code in the form of instructions or datastructures and that can be accessed by a computer. Also, any connectionis properly termed a computer-readable medium. For example, if thesoftware is transmitted from a website, server, or other remote sourceusing a coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, digitalsubscriber line (DSL), or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio,and microwave, then the coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair,DSL, or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave areincluded in the definition of medium. Disk and disc, as used herein,includes compact disc (CD), laser disc, optical disc, digital versatiledisc (DVD), floppy disk and Blu-ray disc where disks usually reproducedata magnetically, while discs reproduce data optically with lasers.Thus, in some embodiments, a computer readable medium may comprisenon-transitory computer readable medium (e.g., tangible media). Inaddition, in some embodiments, a computer readable medium may comprisetransitory computer readable medium (e.g., a signal). Combinations ofthe above should also be included within the scope of computer-readablemedia.

The methods disclosed herein comprise one or more steps or actions forachieving the described method. The method steps and/or actions may beinterchanged with one another without departing from the scope of theclaims. In other words, unless a specific order of steps or actions isspecified, the order and/or use of specific steps and/or actions may bemodified without departing from the scope of the claims. Processes orsteps described in one implementation can be suitably combined withsteps of other described implementations.

The functions described may be implemented in hardware, software,firmware or any combination thereof. If implemented in software, thefunctions may be stored as one or more instructions on acomputer-readable medium. A storage media may be any available mediathat can be accessed by a computer. By way of example, and notlimitation, such computer-readable media can comprise RAM, ROM, EEPROM,CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or othermagnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carryor store desired program code in the form of instructions or datastructures and that can be accessed by a computer. Disk and disc, asused herein, include compact disc (CD), laser disc, optical disc,digital versatile disc (DVD), floppy disk, and Blu-ray.RTM. disc wheredisks usually reproduce data magnetically, while discs reproduce dataoptically with lasers.

Thus, certain aspects may comprise a computer program product forperforming the operations presented herein. For example, such a computerprogram product may comprise a computer readable medium havinginstructions stored (and/or encoded) thereon, the instructions beingexecutable by one or more processors to perform the operations describedherein. For certain aspects, the computer program product may includepackaging material.

Software or instructions may also be transmitted over a transmissionmedium. For example, if the software is transmitted from a website,server, or other remote source using a coaxial cable, fiber optic cable,twisted pair, digital subscriber line (DSL), or wireless technologiessuch as infrared, radio, and microwave, then the coaxial cable, fiberoptic cable, twisted pair, DSL, or wireless technologies such asinfrared, radio, and microwave are included in the definition oftransmission medium.

Further, it should be appreciated that modules and/or other appropriatemeans for performing the methods and techniques described herein can bedownloaded and/or otherwise obtained by a user terminal and/or basestation as applicable. For example, such a device can be coupled to aserver to facilitate the transfer of means for performing the methodsdescribed herein. Alternatively, various methods described herein can beprovided via storage means (e.g., RAM, ROM, a physical storage mediumsuch as a compact disc (CD) or floppy disk, etc.), such that a userterminal and/or base station can obtain the various methods uponcoupling or providing the storage means to the device.

It should be understood that the claims are not limited to the preciseconfiguration and components illustrated above. Various modifications,changes and variations may be made in the arrangement, operation anddetails of the methods and apparatus described above without departingfrom the scope of the claims.

It should be noted that there are many different and alternativeconfigurations, devices and technologies to which the disclosedembodiments may be applied. The full scope of the embodiments are notlimited to the examples that are described below.

For the sake of convenience, the operations are described as variousinterconnected functional blocks or distinct software modules. This isnot necessary, however, and there may be cases where these functionalblocks or modules are equivalently aggregated into a single logicdevice, program or operation with unclear boundaries. In any event, thefunctional blocks and software modules or described features can beimplemented by themselves, or in combination with other operations ineither hardware or software.

Having described and illustrated the principles of the systems, methods,processes, and/or apparatuses disclosed herein in a preferred embodimentthereof, it should be apparent that the systems, methods, processes,and/or apparatuses may be modified in arrangement and detail withoutdeparting from such principles. Claim is made to all modifications andvariation coming within the spirit and scope of the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system for pricing and creating one or moreproducts, comprising: an asset backed token, wherein the asset-backedtoken derives its value from one or more assets in a feedstock derivedfrom an industrial process, wherein the one or more assets comprisevarious rare earth metals and minerals and wherein the industrialprocess is for at least one of extraction and separation of a firstmetal; a smart contract, wherein the smart contract is a non-transitorycomputer-readable medium storing computer protocols configured to atleast one of facilitate, verify, and enforce the performance of acontract; a processor configured to implement the smart contractincluding the steps of: use the processor to associate a process controllogic to a manufacturing process to produce one or more products basedon a first market value, wherein the first market value is derived frombackground calculations and analysis of the one or more assetsrepresented by the asset backed token, determine a second market valuecorresponding to the one or more assets, wherein the second market valueis compared to the first market value to determine which of the one ormore products has a higher market value in accordance with the smartcontract, responsive to determining the higher market value, use theprocess control logic to adjust at least one processing step such that ahigher market value product is produced, responsive to producing thehigher market value product, use the smart contract to document theresults in a distributed ledger wherein the distributed ledger is atleast one of a collective database that is consensually shared,synchronized between a network of nodes across multiple locations, andoperates in either private mode, public mode, or a combination thereof,wherein the private mode of operation of the distributed ledgers isowned and maintained for the exclusive benefit of at least one of anowner, a member of a specific exchange, and a distributed exchange, andwherein the distributed exchange is based on a block-chain validationand verification kept in the distributed ledger.
 2. The system of claim1, wherein the first metal includes at least one of alumina, iron oxide,scandium, and misch metals.
 3. The system of claim 1, wherein thefeedstock comprises at least one of a metal contaminated sand,contaminated soil, contaminated granular material, or combinationsthereof.
 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the first metal is scandium.5. The system of claim 1, wherein the asset-backed token represents atleast one of measurable, quantifiable, verifiable physical, or economiccharacteristics.
 6. The system of claim 4, wherein characteristics ofthe asset-backed token include at least one of volume, mass, valuecontribution ratio, current market value, elemental makeup, mineralspecies, grading data, location of origin, and processing facility data.7. The system of claim 3, wherein the process control logic is linked toat least one of a market value of a complete process, whereinmanufacturing decisions are driven by at least one of a future value,location of source material, and market demand.
 8. The system of claim6, wherein the processing decisions are based on at least one of apredetermined processing strategy, automatically generated decisions,dynamically generated decisions, and manually generated decisions.